Multicultural
ASB253: Death & Dying Across Cultures
During the Fall semester of 2020, I enrolled in ASB253 at GateWay Community College, a course that explored cultural perspectives on death and dying. This class provided an in-depth look at how different cultures approach death, including rituals, traditions, and beliefs surrounding the end of life. While the coursework primarily consisted of PowerPoint presentations and research papers, I found the material deeply engaging, as it expanded my understanding of diverse cultural customs beyond my own.
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One aspect of the course that particularly piqued my interest was my professor’s firsthand experience working at the Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office. She shared personal insights into the field, detailing the responsibilities of forensic professionals and the processes involved in postmortem examinations. Her passion for the subject made the material even more compelling and, more importantly, provided real-world applications of what we were learning. She also introduced us to opportunities for volunteering and employment within the Medical Examiner’s Office, which motivated me to take the initiative and apply for a position.
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After two years, I received a call from the Medical Examiner’s Office inviting me for an interview, which ultimately led to my acceptance as a volunteer. This opportunity allowed me to witness firsthand the complexities of human anatomy and gain valuable experience in a field that directly intersects with medicine, forensic science, and cultural anthropology. Observing the detailed work of medical examiners further solidified my interest in forensic pathology and has inspired me to consider applying to medical school to become a medical examiner.
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This course directly relates to the theme of health, as it not only examines the biological aspects of the human body but also how different societies preserve, honor, and care for the deceased based on religion, personal beliefs, and cultural traditions. ASB253 has broadened my perspective on the intersection of medicine, culture, and forensic science, reinforcing my passion for understanding the human body from both a scientific and anthropological standpoint. It was a rewarding and eye-opening experience that played a crucial role in shaping my academic and career aspirations.
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TCL327: Health & Migration
During the Spring 2025 semester, I enrolled in TCL327, a course that deepened my understanding of how migration paths impact individual and community health. This class not only allowed me to explore the relationship between migration and healthcare access, but it also encouraged me to reflect on my own cultural background and heritage in a way I had never done before.
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One of the most meaningful assignments in this course was creating a family tree (as depicted on the left). Through this project, I charted both living and deceased family members, tracing my roots and discovering more about my family's migration history. This process was eye-opening, as it allowed me to see firsthand how historical migration patterns, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic factors have shaped my family's experiences over generations. It provided me with a deeper appreciation for my heritage, as well as a better understanding of how migration can influence health outcomes, access to resources, and overall well-being.
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Beyond personal reflection, this course also expanded my awareness of global and systemic issues. I gained valuable insight into how current political policies, healthcare systems, and immigration laws play a significant role in shaping health disparities among migrant communities. Through in-depth discussions and written case studies, I was able to critically examine the barriers that certain populations face in accessing healthcare, including language barriers, economic instability, and legal restrictions. This knowledge reinforced the importance of advocating for policy improvements to ensure equitable healthcare access for all individuals, regardless of their migration status.
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This course strongly aligns with the theme of health, as it highlights how different communities experience health challenges based on their migration history and socioeconomic conditions. It broadened my perspective on how global issues influence public health and inspired me to consider how I can contribute to meaningful change. More than just an academic experience, TCL327 has empowered me to take action, whether through further research, advocacy, or direct community involvement, to support migrant communities in achieving better health outcomes.